How to Fix: Business Not Eligible for GBP #
Google blocks verification when your business category or model doesn’t meet eligibility requirements.
Step-by-Step Solution #
Step 1: Verify Eligibility Requirements #
Check if your business meets Google’s criteria:
- Must have in-person contact with customers
- Must have a real, physical location or service area
- Cannot be a purely online business
- Cannot be a rental property or vacation home (with exceptions)
- Must serve customers during stated hours
Step 2: Review Your Business Model #
Determine which model fits:
- Storefront: Customers visit your location
- Service Area: You visit customers at their locations
- Hybrid: Both storefront and service area
Step 3: Choose the Correct Category #
Select a category that matches Google’s eligibility:
- Avoid generic categories like “Business” or “Company”
- Choose specific, eligible categories (e.g., “Plumber” not “Service Provider”)
- Check the full category list
Step 4: Update Your Profile #
Make necessary changes:
- Edit your business category to an eligible option
- Set your address visibility correctly (show for storefront, hide for service area)
- Add service areas if applicable
- Remove any ineligible services from your description
Step 5: Re-attempt Verification #
Once compliant:
- Start the verification process again
- Choose the verification method offered (usually postcard or phone)
- Complete verification when prompted
Official Resources #
Need Professional Help? #
- Contact me directly → - I can assess eligibility and set up your profile
- Ask my AI advisor → - Get instant guidance 24/7
- See all my services → - GMB optimization and management